Most of us have that drive…..something that motivates us to strive to achieve specific goals. This may sound cliche, but, I’ve learned through failure that setting the bar too high can, and sometimes will, lead to not accomplishing the goal you’ve set for yourself. Whether it’s a fitness-related goal, or a business-related goal; it’s better, from my experiences, to set small, obtainable goals, which in turn, will lead to the overall goal (The Big Picture).
Why do we set unattainable goals? For me, I would get too motivated or inspired; then, when working towards it, I would find that it would take more time and effort to achieve, and therefore I would get down on myself. I found that if I set smaller goals, with the larger overall goal in mind, I discovered it was easier! Like the old saying goes: “How do you eat an elephant? 1 bite at a time”.
The main focus point to get started toward your big goal, is to one, identify what you want to achieve. For me, I want to lose between 75-85 pounds. Sounds like a lot; but, through hard work and determination, plus changing my eating lifestyle, I WILL succeed! Words do mean everything. I’ve had to constantly correct my negative thinking and speaking. Changing how you speak will help you strive in your small journeys, which in turn get you to your destination. For example, today (7/11/17) was leg day in the gym. I was doing squats and when I got to my last set-the heavy weight, 5-rep set, I said to myself, “I’m going to do 80 pounds, 5 times”, instead of, “I’m going to try 80 pounds, 5 times”. For me, just that slight change in how I thought made all the difference!
It’s important that we all set out to work to better ourselves. I’m not perfect, nor is anyone else; but, it doesn’t hurt to put yourself out there and go for it! I find that motivational quotes help keep me focused. This is one of my favorite quotes….
I guess it boils down to what will it take for you to change your lifestyle to get fit, if that’s your goal? What will it take to further your business? Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals is a great, small step! When I go to the gym, I have a plan of what I’m going to do when I get there. If it’s chest and triceps day, and I’m pushing and sweating, I’ll observe other people working out, to see if they’re doing those specific areas and ask them if I can jump in for a few sets, or, I’ll talk with one of the trainers and ask them for another exercise to add to my workout. Diversity within the task is key for me. I also make notes on my phone of what I’ve accomplished: The exercises and the amount of weight.
Example, this was today’s workout:
- Tuesday LEGS Seated Leg Press 70 90 110 150 190(heavy set)
- Seated leg curl 70 90 110 130 (heavy)
- Leg extensions 70 90 110 130 (heavy)
- Squats with calf raises 40 50 60 80 (heavy) Not including bar weight
- Hip abductions 70 110 130 170 (heavy) 90 110 150
That way, when I get to that day again, I’ll challenge myself to push a little more weight. The overall objective for me is weight loss, strength and definition of my muscles. It’s a challenge; but, it’s an ATTAINABLE one, when set in smaller increments!
How true! Setting the bar too high can sometimes lead to not accomplishing the goal you’ve set for yourself.
That was a lesson I learned a long time ago. Never again! Thank you for your response!